Londonderry High School Drama Club getting ready to cut loose

By APRIL GUILMETUnion Leader Correspondent

Preacher's daughter Ariel, played by Katie Aramento, shares her thoughts with Ren, the boy from the wrong side of the tracks, played by Brandon Feliciano, in the upcoming production of "Footloose." (APRIL GUILMET PHOTO)

LONDONDERRY - While the 40 or so young cast members of Londonderry High School's upcoming production of "Footloose" aren't old enough to remember the original 1984 film by the same name, the talented group of actors are having no trouble perfecting their roles.

Teacher Valerie Psoinos, who serves as staff adviser for the school drama club, said some things are timeless.

"It's a story about teenagers and growing up," Psoinos said. "Which is something all of them can relate to."

Auditions for the school musical took place in November and more than 85 students vied for roles, according to Psoinos. Rehearsals were in full gear immediately following Thanksgiving and as of last week, student Katie Aramento was already strutting her stuff in the trademark red cowboy boots favored by one of the film's protagonists, Ariel, while Brandon Feliciano, who will play the role of her love interest, Ren, was working to perfect his roller-skating technique.

The play follows the story of Ren, the character originally played by a young Kevin Bacon, as he moves from the city to a small Southern town and falls in love with the local minister's daughter, Ariel (played by Lori Singer in the original film).

A rebellious teenager who dreams of one day leaving her hometown for bigger and better things, Ariel joins Ren in taking action against the town-wide dance ban - hopefully in time for prom season.

Psoinos said most of her teenage crew members are pretty familiar with the movie's 2011 remake.

"They've definitely done their research," she said.

Performances of "Footloose" are scheduled for Feb. 14, 15 and 16 at Adams Memorial Opera House in Derry. Show times are at 7 p.m. on Feb. 14 and 15, and at 2 and 7 p.m. on Feb. 16.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students, senior citizens and staff members. To reserve seats, call Londonderry High School at 432-6941.